Biodesign: Microfiber pad to improve diagnostics, treatment of urinary tract infection in infants and elderly

Contamination of urine samples from infants and the elderly is so common that physicians often needlessly prescribe broad-spectrum antibiotics prophylactically. Now, a team of researchers has developed an innovative microfiber pad that can save time and money in the collection of sterile samples. The non-invasive solution draws urine samples from absorptive pads in seconds while the remainder is absorbed by a polymer matrix, preventing cross-contamination of the urine sample by contact with skin or fecal matter.

from Today's Healthcare News -- ScienceDaily http://ift.tt/1KjPRTN

Ultrasound guidance lowers risks of thoracic nerve block technique for mastectomy

A regional anesthesia technique called thoracic paravertebral nerve block (TPVB) is highly effective in controlling pain after breast cancer surgery, but concern about potential complications may limit its use. A new study provides evidence that using ultrasound to guide the nerve blocking procedure lowers the risk of complications.

from Today's Healthcare News -- ScienceDaily http://ift.tt/1QdP8tK

How diabetes drug metformin inhibits progression of pancreatic cancer

Investigators may have uncovered a novel mechanism behind the ability of the diabetes drug metformin to inhibit the progression of pancreatic cancer. In their report, the research team describes finding that metformin decreases the inflammation and fibrosis characteristic of the most common form of pancreatic cancer.

from Today's Healthcare News -- ScienceDaily http://ift.tt/1RsFyV8

Virtual reality for motor rehabilitation of the shoulder

A virtual reality system for motor rehabilitation of the shoulder has been developed by scientsts. The prototype, which includes a built-in movement sensor, allows the user to do controlled exercises as part of a football game.

from Today's Healthcare News -- ScienceDaily http://ift.tt/1ZDaJle

Lose Weight With No Diet

Is it possible to lose weight with no diet necessary? Sure it is! In fact, dieting is usually another word for quitting. Diets are hard to start and easy to stop.

from Health and Fitness:Weight Loss Articles from EzineArticles.com http://ift.tt/1J7yGK7

Researchers Are Trying Some Crazy Sh!t (Literally) to Help With Weight Loss

We've poo-pooed diet pills in the past, but poop in pill form could be a weight loss solution in the future. An upcoming study will test if transferring fecal microbiota (the tiny bacteria in poop) from thin to obese people helps them lose weight. Some lucky participants will take pills that contain freeze-dried fecal matter, while others are given a placebo containing a mixture of cocoa powder and gelatin (you know, so everyone feels included and the study remains scientifically sound).

It may sound crazy, but research has already found links between the bacteria in your gut and how much you weigh. Scientists believe it may be affecting important things like your blood sugar regulation and response to hunger. (Plus, the switcheroo resulted in weight loss when it was tested on mice.¹ ) This begs the question: Would you take a poop pill to lose weight?

Works Cited

1. Gut microbiota from twins discordant for obesity modulate metabolism in mice. Ridaura VK, Faith JJ, Rey FE. Science (New York, N.Y.), 2013, Oct.;341(6150):1095-9203.

from Greatist RSS http://ift.tt/1lfBqcH

Researchers study hospital readmissions from post-acute care facilities

Better coordination between hospitals and post-acute care facilities could reduce patient readmission to hospitals and mortality rates, according to a new study of risk factors. In a review of more than 3,200 hospitalizations followed by stays in post-acute care facilities, the researchers found specific risk factors that may contribute to the need for readmission to the hospital.

from Today's Healthcare News -- ScienceDaily http://ift.tt/1Pgyy7f

This Video Pinpoints What's Causing Your Breakouts

As much as we'd like to forget everything from our awkward teen years, some things (like acne) stick with us as we age. As this video from Women's Health explains, acne is common among women in their 20s and 30s as estrogen and progesterone levels continue to shift.

Pay attention to where pimples pop up for a clue to the culprit. Acne on your chin can be linked to eating lots of carbs or sugar, and zits near your hairline probably come from your sweat session at the gym. The best way to beat adult acne? Stick to a consistent skin care routine. That means washing your face two times a day, moisturizing, using SPF, and getting your beauty sleep!

(h/t Women's Health)

from Greatist RSS http://ift.tt/1PwuBM5

Watch This Badass CrossFitter Channel Beyoncé to Challenge Stereotypes

Get ready to grin from ear to ear. This video of CrossFit athlete Khan Porter dancing to “Single Ladies” as he gets ready for a snatch makes us want to pop, lock, and drop it too.

But the video isn’t just eye candy. The Australian athlete has an important message to share: We’ve come a long way in how we think about masculinity. (After all, the response to his video has been overwhelmingly positive.) But guys still feel pressured to show a steely toughness, and they’re often chastised when opening up about personal struggles (see: “you’re being a pussy.”) “Just as it’s OK for blokes to dance, it's OK for them to battle mentally and emotionally sometimes too,” Porter writes in a post on Facebook. “If a bunch of people can watch a 25-second video, surely they can also spare the time to ask one of their mates if everything is OK.”

from Greatist RSS http://ift.tt/2059zvK

Immunotherapy for Epstein-Barr related lymphomas

Imagine that your immune system could be educated so that it was able to recognize specific diseases and then destroy them. Science fiction? Or perhaps futuristic? Not anymore. 

from Today's Healthcare News -- ScienceDaily http://ift.tt/1Pgsnju

Brain surgeons challenged to eliminate allinfant deaths due to 'water on the brain'

Every year, thousands of babies worldwide die from a condition, once called “water on the brain,” in which the head swells from a buildup of excess fluid. But no baby need die from this condition, now called hydrocephalus, say researchers.

from Today's Healthcare News -- ScienceDaily http://ift.tt/1KhI496

Simplifying malaria treatment could help children and save nursing time, says new research

One child dies from malaria every 30 seconds in Africa, but a new treatment strategy could help healthcare workers tackle the disease in a simpler way, research has revealed.

from Today's Healthcare News -- ScienceDaily http://ift.tt/1SmHuyE

Standardized approach makes outpatient thyroid surgery safe for even the elderly, super-elderly

A standardized treatment approach that starts with good screening and ends with patients going home to well-prepared caregivers, means outpatient thyroid surgery is safe for the vast majority of patients, including the elderly and super-elderly, physician-scientists say.

from Today's Healthcare News -- ScienceDaily http://ift.tt/1OvBTA2

Will Power Is Not The Answer

Many weight loss coaches start your program by telling you to cut all of the things that you love to eat. Stop eating burgers, French fries, cakes, cookies, macaroni and cheese, and the most dreaded of all, NO ALCOHOL. They tell you to eat tilapia and asparagus 7 days a week followed by a protein shake.

from Health and Fitness:Weight Loss Articles from EzineArticles.com http://ift.tt/1n0YvkP

Are You Self-Sabotaging Your Weight Loss?

We sabotage our weight loss all of the time with our even realizing it. This article gives you 5 easy steps to stop the sabotage and help you reach your goals.

from Health and Fitness:Weight Loss Articles from EzineArticles.com http://ift.tt/1J76U0f

It's Not About The Weight

This is about digging deeper in your weight loss journey. It's not about the number on the scale.

from Health and Fitness:Weight Loss Articles from EzineArticles.com http://ift.tt/1leGI8r

Perk-Me-Up Green Juice

Green juices are usually loaded with nutrients, but this one is a double whammy. Thanks to the ginger, you'll get a nice energy boost and the other ingredients come with health benefits too. Cilantro has lots of vitamin A and spinach is a great source of calcium. It's the perfect—and healthy—way to beat your afternoon drowsiness.

Directions

1. Remove the rind from the lime.
2. Push all ingredients through juicer, pour into two glasses, and stir.

This recipe was provided to Greatist exclusively by Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants. We only partner with a product or company that we think rocks, and we hope you agree

Ingredients

• 2 medium-size pears
• 1 cup spinach
• 1/4 cucumber
• 1 cup cilantro
• 1 medium-size lime
• 1/2 inch ginger

from Greatist RSS http://ift.tt/1no5950

Modular prosthetic limb reaches new levels of operability

A pioneering surgical technique has allowed an amputee to attach a Modular Prosthetic Limb directly to his residual limb, enabling a greater range of motion and comfort than previously possible.

from Today's Healthcare News -- ScienceDaily http://ift.tt/1KhF6Bs

Bone marrow lesions can help predict rapidly progressing joint disease

A new study shows lesions, which can best be seen on MRI scans, could help identify individuals who are more likely to suffer from more rapidly progressing osteoarthritis. Osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis in the UK and can cause the joints to become painful and stiff. Almost any joint can be affected, but it most often causes problems in the knees, hips, and small joints of the hands. It can progress at varying speeds.

from Today's Healthcare News -- ScienceDaily http://ift.tt/1JOxZ8J

Patient involvement could improve medicines, research and development

A new study has revealed a belief among pharmaceutical industry personnel that greater involvement of patients and the public could improve medicines research and development (R&D).

from Today's Healthcare News -- ScienceDaily http://ift.tt/1Q2TNwv

How To Turn Your One Week Weight Loss Goals Into Reality

It's no secret that people who wish to lose weight want quick results. This is because no one wants to spend months to see visible results. The good news is, there are certain ways to actually shed pounds in as little as a week. We have collected some of the most popular yet effective one week weight loss tips. If you want to learn how you can shrink your waist-line and have a great figure, then keep reading.

from Health and Fitness:Weight Loss Articles from EzineArticles.com http://ift.tt/1WesSR1

The 10-Minute Low-Impact HIIT Workout

A lot of times, exercising sounds like a good idea—in theory. Then the reality of going to the gym (in freezing temps, no less!) sets in, and watching Friends re-runs on TV wins out.

But this speedy workout may be just what you need to change your mind. In 10 minutes flat, Grokker trainer Jaime Mcfadden leads you through a series of basic yet challenging low-impact moves for 45 seconds each, followed by 15 seconds of active rest that works your core. The routine strengthens all your major muscle groups—and all you need is a little space to move around. If you want more of a challenge, repeat the entire routine one more time.

To recap, perform each move for 45 seconds, followed by 15 seconds of core work or rest, if needed.

1. Reverse Lunge With Knee Tuck
2. Push-up With Reach
3. Plie Squat
4. Dips
5. Standing Crunch

Interested in more short and effective home workouts? Find them on Grokker, the one-stop online resource for wellness. Grokker sifts through thousands of videos on the web, constantly filtering and aggregating the best cooking, yoga, and fitness videos available so you don't have to.

from Greatist RSS http://ift.tt/1ZAwaTT

The 4-Minute Workout: Is Tabata Training Effective?

Most people want their workouts to be two things: fast and effective. That where high-intensity interval training techniques, like Tabata, come in handy.

The famed training protocol alternates 20-second intervals of maximal effort with 10-second rest periods. Repeat that cycle eight times for an exhaustive four-minute workout.

How It Works

Developed by Dr. Izumi Tabata for Olympic speed skaters, Tabata is a form of high-intensity interval training (HIIT) that’s been adopted by boot camp devotees, CrossFitters, and plenty of fitness fans who just want to spend less time in the gym.¹ The 20-10 pattern has been shown to tax both aerobic and anaerobic pathways more than intense exercise with longer rest periods, meaning improved overall cardiovascular fitness.² By taking rest periods only half the length of the intense bursts (a 2:1 work-to-rest ratio), the body is forced to perform without a full recovery. Translation: At some point between rounds six and eight, you'll hit a point of maximum oxygen intake and be really (really) out of breath.

While the 20-10 protocol is most readily applied to traditional cardio (i.e. sprint for 20 seconds, rest for 10 seconds), the regimen is also suited to all manner of resistance training, bodyweight exercises, and even explosive movements. Whether performing squats, a dumbbell press, or even rowing, the trick is to find a resistance and speed that can be handled for multiple reps across multiple cycles.

Your Action Plan

Like many forms of HIIT, Tabata is an effective way to improve both metabolic pathways, initiate the afterburn effect, and can even stimulate growth of the mitochondria that powers muscles.³ It can mix up an otherwise dull running routine and even suits road warriors looking for a quick and effective hotel workout. But Tabata isn’t for the faint of heart (literally or figuratively). The routine was developed to fully exhaust Olympic athletes, so it's probably not the best routine to try if you're a total newbie. It requires a pain threshold for maximum level effort for multiple cycles—anyone with preexisting cardiovascular conditions should consult with a doctor first.

If you are new to fitness, instead of the full Tabata, begin with just four or five rounds and gradually build up endurance from there. Even the super-fit should avoid doing HIIT daily—your body needs time to recover.

Originally published June 2011. Updated January 2016.

Works Cited

1. Effects of moderate-intensity endurance and high-intensity intermittent training on anaerobic capacity and VO2max. Tabata I, Nishimura K, Kouzaki M. Medicine and science in sports and exercise, 1997, Feb.;28(10):0195-9131.
2. Metabolic profile of high intensity intermittent exercises. Tabata I, Irisawa K, Kouzaki M. Medicine and science in sports and exercise, 1997, May.;29(3):0195-9131.
3. An acute bout of high-intensity interval training increases the nuclear abundance of PGC-1α and activates mitochondrial biogenesis in human skeletal muscle. Little JP, Safdar A, Bishop D. American journal of physiology. Regulatory, integrative and comparative physiology, 2011, Mar.;300(6):1522-1490.

from Greatist RSS http://ift.tt/1J6UdTe

An Exquisite Hairstyle Can Help You Beat Competition At The Workplace

In the modern age, it is important for aspiring candidates to have a bold personality apart of an impressive Resume. The paradigms of the world have changed. Today enterprises are concentrating more on sales. It is important for candidates to work on their personality and come across as someone impressive.

from Health and Fitness:Beauty Articles from EzineArticles.com http://ift.tt/1Q2JVTx

Why You Need The Flu Shot This Season

The flu shot will help protect you from this virus during the season. Not only will it keep you healthy and get you through the whole year but it is also a good idea to get yourself vaccinated if you are around children and elderly people. If you fall ill, there is a big chance that people around you fall ill too and this could get dangerous for those who do not have a good immune system.

from Health and Fitness Articles from EzineArticles.com http://ift.tt/1nnwTqn

Why Use Beard Oil?

Bearded men are very appealing and they seem to have this manly feel about them that is just attractive. However, only a well groomed beard passes for this sort of attraction. Most men know only about keeping the facial hair well-trimmed and combed out but it takes a little more effort to have a shiny and healthy beard. This is where the beard oil comes into the picture.

from Health and Fitness:Beauty Articles from EzineArticles.com http://ift.tt/1SRMUB4

Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) as safe as aspirin

The researchers reviewed major studies of both PrEP for HIV prevention and aspirin for heart attack prevention. They found that both had similar low rates of serious side effects. Aspirin users rarely had serious bleeding or death and PrEP users rarely had serious kidney or bone damage.

from Today's Healthcare News -- ScienceDaily http://ift.tt/1UT83ck

Can't Focus? Maybe You Should Take a Nap

Good news for people who can't focus at work (a.k.a. everyone). The key to being more productive may be as simple as taking a nap. As this video from The Science of Us explains, we shouldn't be working for more than 90 minutes at a time. (This is basically your ticket to go check Facebook and not feel bad about it.) And taking hour-long naps in the middle of the day made people in one study less frustrated and impulsive. Check out the video for more science-backed reasons why a midday snooze can help you crush your next project.

from Greatist RSS http://ift.tt/1Q91wet

How Video Games Can Help With Anxiety and Depression

Video games get a bad rap. We’re told staring at screens for too long can ruin our sleep, hurt our eyesight, and stunt our social lives. Not to mention, violence in action-oriented video games—like Call of Duty or War of Warcraft—can make people more likely to have aggressive outbursts IRL.¹

Even with these potential downfalls, gaming is increasingly used as a therapy for people struggling with mental health problems, like anxiety and depression. Here’s what we know thanks to preliminary studies:

• Games don’t have to be complex to help. You don’t need an immersive, role-playing game to escape, zone out, and feel less anxious. Simplistic games, like Angry Birds, can help boost your mood and make you feel more relaxed.²
• Playing games motivates us. And that’s very important when we’re depressed. “Gaming is the neurological opposite of depression,” says author and well-known gamer Jane McGonigal in an interview with The Long and Short.
• Developers have already designed games to treat mental health problems. Sparx, for example, is a role-playing game that helps promote positive affirmations through the interactions players have within the game. In a small study, all gamers saw a drop in negative thoughts after playing it.³

(h/t The Long and Short)

Works Cited

1. Violent video game effects on aggression, empathy, and prosocial behavior in eastern and western countries: a meta-analytic review. Anderson CA, Shibuya A, Ihori N. Psychological bulletin, 2010, Jun.;136(2):1939-1455.
2. The benefits of playing video games. Granic I, Lobel A, Engels RC. The American psychologist, 2013, Dec.;69(1):1935-990X.
3. The effectiveness of SPARX, a computerised self help intervention for adolescents seeking help for depression: randomised controlled non-inferiority trial. Merry SN, Stasiak K, Shepherd M. BMJ (Clinical research ed.), 2012, Apr.;344():1756-1833.

from Greatist RSS http://ift.tt/1Q12E1J

Medical school program addresses rural physician shortage

Mirroring national trends, 97 percent of the 101 rural counties in Missouri are designated Primary Medical Care Health Professional Shortage Areas by the US Department of Health and Human Services. Now, a recent study shows one of its programs enhances training and may increase interest in rural practice for graduating medical students.

from Today's Healthcare News -- ScienceDaily http://ift.tt/1RHUuPx

Palliative care initiated in the ED associated with improved quality of life

A palliative care consultation initiated in the emergency department (ED) for patients with advanced cancer was associated with improved quality of life and did not seem to shorten survival, according to an article.

from Today's Healthcare News -- ScienceDaily http://ift.tt/1Q10Shd

Researchers kill drug-resistant lung cancer with 50 times less chemo

The cancer drug paclitaxel just got more effective. For the first time, researchers have packaged it in containers derived from a patient's own immune system, protecting the drug from being destroyed by the body's own defenses and bringing the entire payload to the tumor.

from Today's Healthcare News -- ScienceDaily http://ift.tt/1RQAN6f

Researchers develop novel cell line for screening of brain drugs

A new cell line has been developed, which may be used to investigate new drugs and help predict whether they are able to enter the brain. This research will afford scientists in both academia and the medical industry a new tool for investigating drug uptake in brain tissue and tumors where the human efflux pump, P-gp, is expressed.

from Today's Healthcare News -- ScienceDaily http://ift.tt/1n2S6Gg

You Won't Believe How Many People Are Having Sex at the Gym

Do you want to get fit and find love in 2016? Some people kill two birds with one stone. In a recent survey of 2,000 Brits, a quarter admitted to having sex at the gym. Even more steamy: About a fifth of those gymgoers have hooked up with their trainer, and another 10 percent said they always carry a condom in their gym bag because, you know, "just in case."

How exactly does one entice another to get it on at the gym? More than half of men said they use the lat pulldown machine (nice, bro) to attract potential partners while women said they prefer the elliptical machine.

This number isn't representative of the whole population, but, still... maybe "going to the gym" is the new Netflix and chill in the U.K.

(h/t The Independent)

from Greatist RSS http://ift.tt/1Pu0BRb

Yes, Being Vulnerable Is Terrifying—But Here's Why It's So Worth It

Ever felt terrified to tell a boyfriend or girlfriend how much you needed their help or support? Or perhaps you’ve avoided bringing up an issue with a S.O. because you didn’t want to seem inadequate or unlovable. Maybe it was you who bounced on a partner or friend when their needs felt too overwhelming.

All of these reactions can arise when we feel vulnerable in relationships, explains Geraldine Piorkowski, Ph.D., author of Too Close for Comfort: Exploring the Risks of Intimacy. Often, she says, because we fear having our deepest desires trampled upon, rejected, or unfulfilled.

We're not saying that letting people in—especially when you're not used to doing so—is an easy process. But with a little bit of self-awareness and a few communication skills under your belt, you may just be able to lock down that loving, authentic, and mutually supportive relationship you’re afraid to admit that you yearn for. While this is sometimes scary, it is precisely what enables us to enrich our lives and grow.

No, You’re Not Weird

We’ve all struggled to open up to others at some point in our lives, says Jeffry Simpson, Ph.D., a social psychologist and professor of psychology at the University of Minnesota. If you’ve ever balked at the mere thought of getting close to someone new, rest assured: That's normal. It’s instinctual and natural to avoid situations where we might get injured, he explains, even if that injury is “only” psychological.

Because the list of what we potentially lay ourselves bare to in relationships is endless—rejection, attack, lack of reciprocity, betrayal, or the loss our own autonomy, just to name a few—even the securest of people can feel a bit upended when forming romantically charged bonds. Sure, a lot’s at stake when we begin getting close with a new partner, but if we’d like to reap the benefits of having meaningful connections to others (a higher quality and longer life included), vulnerability is pretty much required.¹

Unfortunately, our fears of vulnerability are surprisingly common and heavily influenced by the earliest relationships we had. The more predictable, loving, and stable our relationships were with our parents, teachers, and friends as we grew up, the fewer apprehensions we have around letting others in once we become adults, research suggests.

But if we were deprived of adequate attention, given mixed messages, or abandoned in our early years, we tend to expect the same painful treatment from everyone else in the world—especially those we fall in love with, Simpson says. This can lead some of us to avoid romantic relationships (and sometimes, close friendships) altogether or try to eradicate unbearable angst by clinging to objects of affection too inflexibly.

The more interpersonal or romantic wrongs we’ve experienced, the more our mind sends the memo: Remain on high alert.

And that's when our sneaky subconscious starts to trickle into our awareness. (Wait a minute, last time I felt this close to someone, they rejected me/cheated on me/told me I was “too much.”) The more interpersonal or romantic wrongs we’ve experienced, the more our mind sends the memo: Remain on high alert. “Not only are you more fearful of getting close if you’ve been through troubled relationships—including parents divorcing or infidelity—but you’re also on the look out for conflict and more likely to consider it as very serious,” Piorkowski explains.

This can look like anything from taking on so much work that you never have quality time with your partner, to keeping flings so short-lived that others rarely get the chance to see who you are beneath your professional or social identities. Keeping people at a distance like this can feel self-protective, but it may not help you in the long run. (So-called “avoidantly attached” people report lower overall quality of life and less happy marriages).

It may also take the form of fretting over our partners, obsessively calling, texting, or e-mailing them, or inflaming minor conflicts rather than “just letting things go”—all of which comes with an equally unsatisfying set of consequences, like relationship dissatisfaction and divorce.²

Hang in there if all this sounds too familiar. There’s a silver lining embedded in the potential pitfalls—and part of teasing it out involves clarifying how much of your trepidation is all in your head.

How Not to Freak Out in the Face of Vulnerability

Remember, conflict is not the death knell of a relationship, Piorkowski says. Ironing out issues, maturely discussing differences of opinion, and rectifying mistakes is part and parcel of ongoing, healthy partnerships. Following the steps below can help you hone these essential skills.

1. Touch base with yourself.

Keep track of how you’re feeling, Piorkowski recommends. It can help to jot down the emotions you feel from breakfast to bedtime—and how you acted on those emotions—in a diary. Becoming more aware of your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors helps clue you into what’s really going wrong and what needs to change in order for you to feel better.

And if you find yourself acting out in ways that are self-destructive (think: cheating; lying; drinking, eating, or exercising in excess; or avoiding your partner by staying late at work even when you don’t really have to), note that as well. Each is a sign something’s amiss.

2. Talk about it.

Once you get clear on what you’re feeling, bring it up with your partner. At the very least, Piorkowski says, talking about what’s going on with you (without blame or judgment) can foster feelings of closeness and mutual understanding.

3. Get a reality check.

No matter how sane we are, all of us hold beliefs about reality that can muddy how we interpret a significant other’s behavior, studies show. (Think: reading way too much into a single-worded text or assuming someone is cheating on us when they’re actually just getting drinks with their friends.)

Check in with your partner as well as close friends about whether they see you as overreacting, tense, or critical.

“The clearest way of getting a handle on this is to check in with your partner as well as close friends about whether they see you as overreacting, tense, or critical,” Piorkowski says. Rather than invalidating what you’re feeling, it can help to have a different perspective on whether your emotions—and the actions that follow from them—are in line with the facts of what’s actually happening.

4. Ask for what you need.

Do you feel you’re not getting enough quality time with your mate? Do you want more of their attention—physical, emotional, or both? Maybe you’d like them to tone down their criticism or request they be more mindful of your needs for personal space. Ask for what you need in a loving way, without nagging or accusing, advises Piorkowski. If they care about your well-being, chances are, they’ll understand. Try, "I really care about you, but when you speak to me in that tone, it’s really hurtful and makes me want to shut down. Can you try couching your feedback a little more kindly?"

Or "I love G-chatting/texting with you during the day but sometimes it can make me get less done at the office. Maybe we can try talking on the phone during my break, or updating one another on our days once we’ve left work?"

Whatever it is you want, says Piorkowski, you’re certainly lowering your chances of getting it if you avoid asking for fear of driving them away. (And if they’re repeatedly unwilling to adjust their behavior in a way that makes you feel comfortable then they may not be the best match for you… which is better to know sooner than later.)

5. Help your partner feel safe.

Being emotionally intimate doesn’t just mean being in tune with or talking about all our feelings, beliefs, wishes, and needs. It also means being empathetic toward what’s going on in our partners' heads. Luckily, Simpson’s research shows there’s a lot we can do to allay our partner’s apprehensions around getting close.

If they have anxiety that you don’t love them (or that you’ll leave them), but you have no inclination to do so, point out counter-examples that refute their worries. Remind them, kindly, how much you care, and that you woudn't be here, investing time and energy in the relationship, if you didn’t want them to be in your life.

If your partner has a penchant for pulling away, Simpson suggests assuring them you’re willing to take things at a pace they’re more amenable to.

The Takeaway

It’s totally normal to be afraid of opening up to someone you’re romantically involved with. But the more honest we are with ourselves, the more we communicate with our partners, and the more effort we make to support the people we fall in love with, the better our chances become of finding satisfaction with someone else.

Works Cited

1. Development and validation of the Emotional Intimacy Scale. Sinclair VG, Dowdy SW. Journal of nursing measurement, 2006, May.;13(3):1061-3749.
2. Perceptions of conflict and support in romantic relationships: the role of attachment anxiety. Campbell L, Simpson JA, Boldry J. Journal of personality and social psychology, 2005, Jun.;88(3):0022-3514.

from Greatist RSS http://ift.tt/1KfLfOl

5 Ways To Get You Motivated About A Healthy Lifestyle

If you are looking to get in better shape, lose weight and improve your health, you will be given some tips to help you do just that. If you need to set goals or manage time better, here's 5 ways that you can do just that!

from Health and Fitness Articles from EzineArticles.com http://ift.tt/1PdFLFc

Multi-organ transplant program performs Canada's first upper limb transplant

In a Canadian first, a multi-disciplinary team has successfully completed the country’s first transplant of the upper limb. The 49-year-old female patient, who lost her arm below the elbow in an accident several years ago, is doing well and recovering from the procedure. The patient’s rehabilitation will begin right away with a custom made splint and motion of the joints to avoid stiffness.

from Today's Healthcare News -- ScienceDaily http://ift.tt/1KfGvIF

Best Hairstyles For Girls

By knowing you must have known the fact that there are a lot of hairstyles that are available for a fresh look of the face and they are bound to make you look gorgeous. Now today we have come up with a number of styles that are meant for the girls with long hair so that whenever they are going to a party then can have any of these easy but pretty styles and make them look even more elegant.

from Health and Fitness:Beauty Articles from EzineArticles.com http://ift.tt/1ZmUlzU

Mosquito net safe to use in inguinal hernia repair

Sterilized mosquito nets can replace costly surgical meshes in the repair of inguinal (groin) hernias without further risk to the patients, according to a new study. This makes mosquito nets a good alternative for close to 200 million people in low-income countries suffering from untreated groin hernias.

from Today's Healthcare News -- ScienceDaily http://ift.tt/1PduHrx

Can Compression Clothing Make You a Better Athlete?

Take a look at any professional football game, basketball game, or race starting line, and you’re bound to see them: compression garments. Tight sleeves, knee-high socks, full-length leggings in neon colors that seem to be on nearly every competitor.

The claims are impressive: Manufacturers say compression garments can speed recovery, increase blood flow, and therefore, improve athletic performance. But what does the science say? And what’s the best choice for a recreational gym-goer?

The Need-to-Know

Compression clothing—most often made of a blend of spandex and nylon and engineered to be stretchable while maintaining a specific structure—has been used in the medical field for years. The garments apply pressure to the desired body part, compressing the tissue and helping to promote blood flow and prevent edema.¹

“Stockings were made so there is more pressure lower [on the leg], and less farther up,” says Robert Gotlin, M.D., the director of orthopedic and sports rehabilitation at Mount Sinai Beth Israel. “They can push blood along for those with vascular disease or circulation problems.”

From there, the thinking emerged: If the garments increase blood flow, maybe they could help athletes perform better, Gotlin says. A quick anatomy lesson: Our muscles need oxygen in order to perform. They get that oxygen via our blood flow. So, in theory, increase blood flow equals increase oxygen equals better athletic performance… right?

Maybe. There are lots of conflicting studies. A few small ones have noted improvements in jump performance and submaximal running, while other studies looking at longer durations found the garments to be of little help to endurance athletes.² Perhaps even more importantly, a review of studies about compression garments worn by athletes concluded that the various types (sleeves, socks, etc.) and varying grades of compression often gave rise to contradictory results.³ In other words, there’s no clear verdict.

“There are studies that show the biggest effect is placebo,” Gotlin says.⁴ “People might say they feel and perform better with the garments on, but it is it because the garments are doing their supposed function?” Or could it simply be the garments providing an extra bit of adrenaline because you already think they’re helping you?

Sean Fortune, a running coach and owner of Central Park Coaching, is a fan. “Especially if your legs feel a little beat-up, and you’re going for a run, the snugness on the muscles will feel great. And it’s just an added protection layer that you wouldn’t have otherwise.”

Fortune, who prefers to wear compression half-tights or socks from Zoot, says he initially started wearing the gear to help with hamstring tightness and soreness. Today, he recommends everyone should at least try a compression tight.

Elizabeth ‘Corky’ Corkum, a running coach from Mile High Run Club, agrees. “I don’t think there’s any evidence that there’s a negative effect,” she says. “So if you like it, great! It’s not going to hurt you to wear it.”

Corkum says she’s almost always worn compression gear—she likes brands Pearl Izumi and CEP—especially when racing longer distances. “They’re helpful with my calves,” she says. “It might be placebo, but it feels like there’s a bit more support there.”

There is one aspect of compression garments where the science might be a bit stronger: recovery day.

“[Compression garments] do push more oxygen through the body, so it makes more sense that they have more of a role in recovery, because it’s all about physiology,” Gotlin says. A recent review also found that compression may aid in faster recovery—but was cautious to say more research was needed.⁵

“I’ll take an ice bath, and then wear my recovery tights under jeans,” Fortune says. “Everything just feels compressed and not inflamed—but it’s hard to say the exact difference it makes. Maybe it’s in my head, but I think it helps.”

The Takeaway

Both Fortune and Corkum suggested starting with a pair of compression socks, if you’re looking to try out the gear. And both readily acknowledged that while compression gear seems to work for them, it might be a placebo effect, and it might not work for everyone.

“It’s going to come down to the individual person and their comfort,” Corkum says.

From a doctor’s perspective, Gotlin also said compression gear was probably fine to try as long as it wasn’t too restricting or limiting in your range of motion. However, in the quest to become a better athlete, he adds, “Nothing replaces good old hard work and human effort.”

Originally published May 2012. Updated January 2016.

Works Cited

1. Compression stockings reduce occupational leg swelling. Partsch H, Winiger J, Lun B. Dermatologic surgery : official publication for American Society for Dermatologic Surgery [et al.], 2004, Jul.;30(5):1076-0512. Compression stockings for the initial treatment of varicose veins in patients without venous ulceration. Shingler S, Robertson L, Boghossian S. The Cochrane database of systematic reviews, 2011, Nov.;(11):1469-493X.
2. The effects of wearing undersized lower-body compression garments on endurance running performance. Dascombe BJ, Hoare TK, Sear JA. International journal of sports physiology and performance, 2011, Aug.;6(2):1555-0265. Compression garments and exercise: garment considerations, physiology and performance. MacRae BA, Cotter JD, Laing RM. Sports medicine (Auckland, N.Z.), 2012, Jan.;41(10):1179-2035. Aerobic energy cost and sensation responses during submaximal running exercise--positive effects of wearing compression tights. Bringard A, Perrey S, Belluye N. International journal of sports medicine, 2006, Oct.;27(5):0172-4622.
3. [Effects of compression textiles on performance enhancement and recovery]. Sperlich B, Born DP, Haegele M. Sportverletzung Sportschaden : Organ der Gesellschaft für Orthopädisch-Traumatologische Sportmedizin, 2011, Dec.;25(4):1439-1236.
4. Long-term effects of graduated compression stockings on cardiorespiratory performance. Priego JI, Lucas-Cuevas AG, Aparicio I. Biology of sport, 2015, Apr.;32(3):0860-021X.
5. Are compression garments effective for the recovery of exercise-induced muscle damage? A systematic review with meta-analysis. Marqués-Jiménez D, Calleja-González J, Arratibel I. Physiology & behavior, 2015, Oct.;153():1873-507X.

from Greatist RSS http://ift.tt/1Pdmrb2

How to Maintain Winter Health: Some Useful Tips

You don't have to be a stark to worry about winter. This season can bring anyone down with colds and flu. All the time, you don't need modern medicine to help you stay healthy this winter. Here are eight natural ways to prevent getting sick during the winter:

from Health and Fitness Articles from EzineArticles.com http://ift.tt/1KfsxXp

Lose Weight In A Month - Can Trying To Lose Weight In A Month Make You Sluggish?

Can trying to lose weight in a month make you feel sluggish? It can if you are cutting out or cutting down on the wrong foods. One of the main types of food that is cause for weight gain and a sluggish feeling is sugar.

from Health and Fitness:Weight Loss Articles from EzineArticles.com http://ift.tt/1RPjIK0

Get Rid Of Bloating - How To See Fast Results To Get Rid Of Bloating

What is the fastest way to get rid of bloating? First of all, a good idea to quickly get rid of bloating is to cut out the foods and drinks that can be causing it.

from Health and Fitness:Weight Loss Articles from EzineArticles.com http://ift.tt/1l9LO5I

Finding Motivation To Lose Weight - What To Avoid When Finding Motivation To Lose Weight

Motivation is half of the battle. Starting something new can feel like a daunting task and overwhelm you. This feelings will definitely quench the fire of motivation.

from Health and Fitness:Weight Loss Articles from EzineArticles.com http://ift.tt/1RPjK4L

How Many Perfume Launches Is Too Many?

Over the years a day doesn't go by that a fragrance design house advertises and launches a new perfume or cologne. This doesn't even take into a count those that come out around the holidays. But, how many is too many?

from Health and Fitness:Beauty Articles from EzineArticles.com http://ift.tt/1Zmr20u

This Little Machine Helps You Fall (and Stay) Asleep

Marpac Dohm DS Sound Machine

After a long day, there’s nothing better than climbing into a nice, warm bed. But there’s nothing worse than lying awake in said bed because of a noisy neighbor or traffic zooming by. Sure, we all have the occasional sleepless night, but what if we told you all you need to do to fall asleep fast is flip a switch?

Sleep experts say white noise can help people fall asleep faster by covering up ambient sounds, like footsteps, TV, or laughter outside your window on a Saturday night. That’s why Marpac's Dohm Sound Machine is a godsend. Just press a button, adjust the volume to your liking, and you’re instantly surrounding by a soothing hum.

Turning on this little machine is now a non-negotiable staple in our bedtime routine. It's a little pricey, but if it means no more lying awake and staring at the ceiling, we're willing to shell out the extra cash.

I Want This $49.95

from Greatist RSS http://ift.tt/1TXo1lR

Everything a Regular Guy Needs to Know About Skin Care

36 Chia Seed Pudding Recipes That Taste Like Dessert

See 100 Years of Wacky Fitness Trends in 3 Minutes

We know, we know, not another 100-year roundup video. But this one is actually worth watching. Cassey Ho of Blogilates fame kills it, highlighting fitness trends from each decade—and the outfits worn while working out. Our favorites tend to be the wackier ones, like leather barbells (yep, those were a thing), strength trainers that resemble torture devices, and, of course, the Shake Weight.

(h/t Marie Claire)

from Greatist RSS http://ift.tt/1J3Rudc

Top 8 Nail Care Tips - Set Your Nail Care Salon At Home

Our hands are always engaged in a variety of activities every day & fingernails accumulate the most bacteria found on the hands. When you scratch an itchy skin area or bite your nails, those bacteria find a way to our mouth & reach the rest of your body, creating many health problems. A clean set of nails helps you stay healthy & prevent many infections to take place. So, we are discussing 8 nail care tips to take care of your nails, sitting at home.

from Health and Fitness:Beauty Articles from EzineArticles.com http://ift.tt/1ZvcQYp

Sleep Better Thanks to This New iPhone Feature

As much as we love the nightly ritual of hitting the hay with our smartphones, scientists warn that all that screen time (and blue light exposure) before bed can make us lose an hour of sleep per night. Apple is finally doing something about it.

The newest update for mobile and tablet devices (iOS 9.3) includes an optional mode called Night Shift. Once enabled, it gradually removes blue light after sunset by shifting to warmer colors. (Our eyes expect to see red light as it gets darker, so seeing cooler light at night disrupts our sleep, according to the American Medical Association.) Night Shift uses your device's clock and location to detect when the sun is setting. By the time you wake up in the morning, your phone or tablet will switch back to emitting those bright blue rays.

from Greatist RSS http://ift.tt/1KdS5Ef

How To Lose Weight - The Permanent Way

When we get older, we are encouraged to eat healthy and get more exercise. That's good advice for people of any age, but apparently, it becomes more important if we want to enjoy life more when we get the senior tag.

from Health and Fitness:Weight Loss Articles from EzineArticles.com http://ift.tt/1TVP2G8

This Campaign Has an Awesome Message for Anyone Who’s Been Body Shamed

Has a fashion blog, magazine, annoying relative, or random stranger ever told you that something isn't "flattering" on you? That's what makes #ImFlattered, a social campaign from clothing company SmartGlamour, so cool. Women pose for photos, holding signs with the negative comments they've received ("Put those girls away!" or "Big girls shouldn't wear prints.") to call out how ridiculous, insulting, and hurtful those remarks can be.

Best part? The women are rocking the exact type of outfit they've been shamed for—reminding everyone that they can wear whatever the hell they want. "After all, the actual definition of flattering is 'pleasing, gratifying,' and if someone is pleased with themselves, why would you want to screw that up?" writes Mallorie Dunn, the company's founder, in a blog post about the campaign. Amen to that!

Check out photos from this badass campaign below.

Photo: SmartGlamour Photo: SmartGlamour Photo: SmartGlamour Photo: SmartGlamour Photo: SmartGlamour Photo: SmartGlamour Photo: SmartGlamour Photo: SmartGlamour

from Greatist RSS http://ift.tt/1Q62AzR

Trauma experts study treatment of pregnant trauma patients to improve neonatal outcomes

Expectant mothers who sustain a traumatic injury and receive care at a hospital with a designated trauma center experience better outcomes than those treated at a non-trauma hospital, say researchers.

from Today's Healthcare News -- ScienceDaily http://ift.tt/1REsSL9

Everyday Ostomy Terms You Need To Know

When you or a loved one needs an ostomy, there's a lot to learn. Here are some of the basics you'll add to your ostomy vocabulary.

from Health and Fitness Articles from EzineArticles.com http://ift.tt/1mWsCty

Protein patterns: New tool for studying sepsis

Sepsis is a very complicated and precarious condition. Research groups have now developed a way to use mass spectrometry to measure hundreds of proteins in a single blood sample. With the help of protein patterns it is then possible to determine the severity of the condition and which organs have been damaged.

from Today's Healthcare News -- ScienceDaily http://ift.tt/1Ps5Occ

Experts recommend immediate treatment for severe primary adrenal insufficiency symptoms

A Clinical Practice Guideline (CPG) has been issued on the diagnosis and treatment of primary adrenal insufficiency, a condition commonly known as Addison's disease that occurs when the body produces too little of the hormone cortisol.

from Today's Healthcare News -- ScienceDaily http://ift.tt/1J3s9Af

Common dementia drug found to improve Parkinson's symptoms

A commonly prescribed dementia drug could hold the key to helping prevent debilitating falls for people with Parkinson's, scientists have discovered. Parkinson's affects approximately seven million worldwide. 70% of people with Parkinson's will fall at least once a year, with over a third experiencing falls repeatedly, resulting in fractures, broken bones and hospital admissions.

from Today's Healthcare News -- ScienceDaily http://ift.tt/1mZxles

Largest-ever study of cornea condition reveals hidden risk factors

A large new study reveals previously unknown risk factors associated with an eye condition that causes serious progressive nearsightedness at a relatively young age. The findings, made through the largest-ever clinical study of the condition called keratoconus, could help more people receive newer treatments that can slow the problem and protect their vision.

from Today's Healthcare News -- ScienceDaily http://ift.tt/1mWnQfC

Creating 'medical homes' involves significant costs, study finds

Converting primary care medical practices to the 'medical home' model is intended to help improve quality and cut medical spending. But converting to the model involves substantial costs, which may pose a financial challenge for small and independent practices wanting to make the shift, according to a new study.

from Today's Healthcare News -- ScienceDaily http://ift.tt/1Rm5sK8

Frozen vs. fresh fecal transplantation for C. diff. infection shows similar effectiveness

Among adults with Clostridium difficile infection that is recurrent or not responsive to treatment, the use of frozen compared with fresh fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) did not result in a significantly lower rate of resolution of diarrhea, indicating that frozen FMT may be a reasonable treatment option for these patients, according to a study.

from Today's Healthcare News -- ScienceDaily http://ift.tt/1W8ba1B

Mental health conditions common among bariatric surgery patients

Mental health conditions, such as depression and binge eating disorder, are common among patients seeking and undergoing bariatric surgery, according to a study. Bariatric surgery is an accepted method of promoting weight loss in severely obese individuals. Mental health conditions may be common among patients seeking bariatric surgery; however, the prevalence of these conditions and whether they are associated with postoperative outcomes has not been known.

from Today's Healthcare News -- ScienceDaily http://ift.tt/1PbQShU

Treatment for severe emphysema improves exercise capacity

In preliminary research for patients with severe emphysema, a minimally invasive intervention involving the implantation of coils in the lungs with an endoscope resulted in improved exercise capacity at six months, although with high short-term costs, according to a study.

from Today's Healthcare News -- ScienceDaily http://ift.tt/1OiviuR

Breast cancer screening recommendations could endanger women

If followed, new U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) breast cancer screening recommendations will result in thousands of unnecessary deaths each year and thousands more women enduring extensive and expensive treatment than if their cancer had been found early by an annual mammogram, argue experts.

from Today's Healthcare News -- ScienceDaily http://ift.tt/1Q5J46m

More research needed on evaluation of dense breasts

Determinations of breast density can be unreliable, a systematic review of the scientific literature on dense breasts shows, and as many as 19 percent of women are re-categorized as dense rather than non-dense or vice versa from one mammogram to the next, researchers report. Their study also found that supplemental diagnostic screenings for women with dense breasts find additional breast cancers but also greatly increase false positive results.

from Today's Healthcare News -- ScienceDaily http://ift.tt/1l6zyDd

Breast cancer screening: Making a safe procedure even safer

Breast cancer screening with digital mammography poses only a small risk of radiation-induced breast cancer for most women, a comprehensive modeling study has found. However, the research showed increased risk for women with large breasts or breast implants, who must often receive extra screening views, increasing their radiation exposure.

from Today's Healthcare News -- ScienceDaily http://ift.tt/1J3gxNA

Whoa, Hookah Smoking Is Worse for Your Body Than We Thought

Thanks to endless PSAs (and those posters in health class), we know cigarettes are addictive and full of cancer-causing toxins. Using hookahs, however, tends to get a pass in these conversations. But those Instagrammable smoke rings are chock-full of bad stuff.

New research from the University of Pittsburgh found that a typical one-hour smoking session involves more than double the nicotine, 10 times the carbon monoxide, and 25 times the tar as smoking a single cigarette. It’s not a perfect comparison—you can definitely smoke more than one cigarette in a hour. But the findings are still alarming, especially with news that for the first time ever, hookah smoking is more popular than cigarettes among teens.

(h/t ScienceDaily)

from Greatist RSS http://ift.tt/200IKIR

Low Carb Indian Diet Plan For Losing Weight

A Low Carb Diet is really known to work well for weight loss. Indians on a low Carb Diet are always on a look out for Low Carb Indian Diet Plans as they don't have too many options. Those on a Low Carb Vegetarian Diet have a tough time in making diet plans for themselves whereas it is breeze for those who eat non-veg.

from Health and Fitness:Weight Loss Articles from EzineArticles.com http://ift.tt/1UP7roj

Losing Weight Without Dieting - The Chongqing Way

A reliable and healthy method of losing weight and fat has been of major interest to most people in western society for several decades. It is time to look elsewhere to societies that do not have the "overweight problem".

from Health and Fitness:Weight Loss Articles from EzineArticles.com http://ift.tt/1P14Xop

Maintain Your Health for a Long Period of Time

Health can be defined as something that is taken for granted many times. Whenever we start losing health it can turn out to be hard to believe that we spent a very long period of time not valuing it at all. Thus in order to ensure that you stay as healthy as possible for a very long period of time, we have outlined a small guide for your understanding.

from Health and Fitness Articles from EzineArticles.com http://ift.tt/1TV3UVf

How the Presidential Fitness Test Set Us up for Failure

As humans, we’re designed to be powerful movers and climbers. Think about it: We’re always focused on ‘movin’ on up,’ whether it's financially, socially, or physically. And, yes, I’m talking about climbing things. From rock climbing to doing pull-ups, getting better at ascending will have a direct effect on how you can rise in other areas of your life.

But an entire generation of kids have been “grounded”—never able to venture upward—weighed down by a massive monkey on their back. And the name of that monkey? The Presidential Fitness Test. Or more specifically, the traumatic, humiliating, shame-inducing memories that have left a scar in our collective psyche and even shaped our relationship to our own bodies in a profoundly damaging way.

For those that don’t recall, the Presidential Fitness Test was an attempt to assess the strength and fitness of the entire nation’s grade school kids, ages six to 17 from 1956 to 2013. And although the program was recently retired, its effects can still be felt today. The pervasive negative culture formed as a result of this assessment, which turned gym class into the scene of a crime, is perhaps stronger than ever.

Though well-intentioned, the PFT was a traumatic experience for many people. And as crazy as it sounds, many of us created an identity out of that trauma. Think: "I'll never be able to do a pull-up," or "I'm not an athlete.” And that just isn’t true.

Come on Down to Gym Class (and Fail)

All humans have a need to fit in and be part of a larger social group. This need is deeply wired into our brains—and nowhere is this more true than with children.

There’s no shortage of horror stories relating to the Presidential Fitness Test: the abusive gym teacher, being paired with the cute girl and then sweating buckets, the humiliation of not being able to do “even one” pull-up.

And it’s that last one, the dreaded pull-up test, that left a tremendous amount of damage in its wake. That’s because a huge portion of kids “failed” at doing one—and failed in front of everyone. And unlike the sit-up and sit-and-reach tests, where you were partnered with someone, the pull-up test was usually done in front of the whole class—sometimes the entire grade—for all to see and judge.

But here’s the part that makes me really angry as a health and fitness professional: In many cases, the kids were literally set up to fail.

But here’s the part that makes me really angry as a health and fitness professional: In many cases, kids were literally set up to fail. No coaching, no progressive overload, no program design manipulating acute training variables, no mastering of other pre-requisite movements (like the dead hang), and in many cases, absolutely no preparation or warm-up. Just “Hop on the bar and bang ‘em out!”Or struggle with all your might and fail in front of your entire peer group.

And to make matters worse, the entire experience was repeated again the following year. So the kids that still couldn’t do a pull-up inadvertently learned a powerful and destructive lesson: “Exercise is a humiliating experience, and no matter how hard I try, I don’t make progress—so I might as well give up.”

In addition to the trauma from these experiences are the identity issues that were born out of this sort of athletic “caste system,” where some kids were deemed natural movers and others not. (News flash: If you’re alive today, it’s because your ancestors were able to master body movement.)

I’m not here to bash gym teachers: Some of them are awesome, despite the fact that they, too, are set up to fail. And while the idea of compulsory education—totally free for every U.S. child—was a wildly ambitious undertaking with great intentions, the flaws in our current education system have created a generation of kids that are deeply disconnected from their body, health, and food.

This is the environment that allows current disease epidemics, like obesity and diabetes, to thrive. And the PFT is a perfect example of how good intentions can still produce sadistic results.

Hitting a Bull's-Eye the First Time

Full disclosure here: I specifically remember my first experience with the pull-up test because it was a tremendous source of pride. I did more than anyone else in my grade and most of the kids in the grade older than me. But I loved climbing everything: trees, buildings, a chandelier when I was two years old (which I fell off of and split my chin—but only when my mother saw me and screamed—true story).

I would spend hours climbing up the slide at recess. It was my favorite. And I was rewarded for being athletic. (You may roll your eyes, but this too became a curse, because it made me think: "I’m only valuable if I perform better than everyone." And that mentality led me to injure myself more than once over the years.)

It’s only now—as someone who has been studying the human body and mind for more than 20 years—that I’m horrified at the implications of the Presidential Fitness Test.

Not being able to do a pull-up when you haven't trained to do it is like not being able to hit a bull's-eye the first time you shoot an arrow. It's normal to miss!

Picture this: What if instead of a pull-up, we lined up the whole school at the archery field to watch you try to hit a bull's-eye for the first time—and then slapped a label on you based on the outcome. In the weeks that follow, everyone calls you by the new moniker, so naturally, you tell yourself it must be true. Not being able to do a pull-up when you haven't trained is like not being able to hit a bull's-eye the first time you shoot an arrow. It's normal to miss!

As a holistic trainer for more than 15 years, I’ve seen time and again that the biggest resistance to real change isn’t the weight, it’s the stories clients tell themselves about who they are and what they are capable of doing. And sadly, those stories are often the result of a traumatic experience from childhood.

Overcoming the Schoolyard Damage

For many people, the most direct path to healing the trauma is to "return to the scene of the crime." And no, I don't mean revisiting your elementary school to shake your fist menacingly at a rusty pull-up bar. I mean this time, through hard work, consistency, and proper program design, you actually learn do a pull-up.

There are three huge benefits to getting your very first strict form pull-up. First, it feels awesome—on a primal, non-verbal level.

Second, you will begin to heal the trauma from grade school and to see yourself in a healthier and more realistic light. Trauma is stored in the body, and many of us will experience the negative self-talk, abuse, and shame that we initially experienced as we begin to work on our pull-up practice. If you don’t see this negative social programming for what it really is, you’ll always be limited by it. So use the discomfort as an opportunity.

And finally, the experience creates real momentum in your health and fitness practices. Because if pull-ups used to be impossible, but you did one anyway, what else seems physically impossible but actually isn’t? This is what I call “Exercise Alchemy©,” the sense of awe, wonder, and possibility that (physically) doing the previously impossible creates. You can follow a detailed guide of how to nail your first pull-up here, and practice upper-body strengthening moves that will help you ease into pull-up practice here.

Through the process, you learn that you really can strengthen yourself and let go of the "I'm just not good at exercise" concept that many use to bury their childhood experience.

Having said all that, it's important not to approach doing your first pull-up from a place of anger and low self-worth. If you aren't fixated on the past, aren't locked in an identity of "movement sucks and just sets me up for embarrassment," and aren't defining yourself by what you can't do, that's a strong sign that you've "done the work" and can move on. It's a good sign of healing and completion.

I personally dream of a day where our entire school system teaches movement in a way that allows us all to retain our natural, child-like curiosity and joyful connection to play. But until then, we can at least get the 800-pound gorilla off our own backs and reclaim our ancestral inheritance. Get a grip and rise up!

This post was was written by Jonathan Angelilli, the trainer behind Train Deep. Jonathan is many things: recovered addict, peaceful warrior, celebrity trainer, elite athlete, successful writer, humble teacher, loving student. Above all, he is an Exercise Alchemist™, someone who is passionate about the power of holistic exercise to transform you into the best version of yourself, and to transform the entire world. This year, Jonathan is on a mission to help 100 people achieve their first pull-up.

from Greatist RSS http://ift.tt/1ZtLh1C

See What Juice Cleanses Actually Do to Your Body

After stuffing ourselves silly over the holidays, it’s time to hit the reset button. For some that means dry January, while others opt for a juice cleanse. Those who preach the juice cleanse gospel will tell you their three-day (or more) liquid diet flushes out all the toxins that have built up in their body. But this video from SciShow calls their bluff. There’s no science to back up these claims—and our liver and kidney do a fine job of getting rid of toxins. While a juice cleanse probably won’t hurt you, it’s not the healthiest choice either.

from Greatist RSS http://ift.tt/1JKuFLz

What Is the Difference Between ThermiSmooth and ThermiTight?

Cutting-edge options like ThermiSmooth and ThermiTight that address issues such as skin laxity and wrinkles have therefore become very popular. Let's find out what is the difference between ThermiSmooth and ThermiTight.

from Health and Fitness:Beauty Articles from EzineArticles.com http://ift.tt/1SOsEQK

Criteria for Selecting The Top Hospital For Your Treatment

It's a known fact that hospital visits aren't always a planned thing. But sometimes you are in a situation where you have the time to evaluate and analyze which hospital you wish to go to for your treatment.

from Health and Fitness Articles from EzineArticles.com http://ift.tt/1OP3wYq

5 Practical Weight Loss Tips For Men

Men and women have differences both internally and externally and, for that reason, men do need a specific weight loss program. These 5 weight loss tips for men are designed to help men lose unwanted fat around their waistline.

from Health and Fitness:Weight Loss Articles from EzineArticles.com http://ift.tt/1PWYkke

7 Healthier French Toast Recipes

Parents in dark about using epinephrine for kids’ food allergies

When a child has a food allergy, it’s critical for pediatricians and allergists to show parents when and how to use an epinephrine auto-injector and to provide a written emergency food allergy action plan for home and school. But many parents say doctors don’t give them this potentially lifesaving information about their children’s emergency care, a new study reports. This communication gap needs to be fixed, researchers said.

from Today's Healthcare News -- ScienceDaily http://ift.tt/1mU5YSz

New therapy aids bid to beat organ failure caused by pancreatitis

Scientists have discovered an experimental medicine that protects against organ damage caused by a condition linked to excessive alcohol consumption. The research offers hope for patients affected by the disease -- called acute pancreatitis -- which currently has no treatment.

from Today's Healthcare News -- ScienceDaily http://ift.tt/1TTJs7i

Even small reductions in kidney function may damage heart, blood vessels

Even small reductions in kidney function are associated with heart and blood vessel damage, according to new research.

from Today's Healthcare News -- ScienceDaily http://ift.tt/1l4ebm0

Coffee Flour Is About to Give Your Baked Goods a Jolt

Soon you'll be able to get a jolt of caffeine from eating cookies and scones. It's all thanks to Daniel Perlman, our new favorite biophysicist and a professor at Brandesis University, who just perfected the process of making coffee flour.

Perlman grinds partially baked green coffee beans to make the powder. This technique preserves chlorogenic acid, an antioxidant that's destroyed during the regular roasting process and one of the reasons researchers think coffee can be good for you.

Mixing the flour into your next batch of muffins won't be the same as sipping on Starbucks, though. Four grams will give the same boost as a cup of coffee, but your body will probably absorb the caffeine slower. That means long-term energy as opposed to just a quick rush. The miracle ingredient isn't available yet, although Perlman has been conducting lots of baking tests since securing a patent in December. It's expected to be more expensive than everyday flour, but it may be worth it for a new twist on boosted brownies.

(h/t Eater)

from Greatist RSS http://ift.tt/1PpT99z

Can You Have a Threesome and Still Have a Healthy Relationship?

Racial disparity in premature births contributes significantly to infant mortality problem

Black women are nearly four times more likely than white women to have a baby born between 16 and 22 weeks gestation, a time period in which the life of a baby outside the womb is not viable. The racial disparity in what are known as 'previable' preterm births may explain much of the racial disparity in infant mortality.

from Today's Healthcare News -- ScienceDaily http://ift.tt/1TT673F

The 100 Most Influential People in Health and Fitness

Long-term opioid use associated with increased risk of depression

Opioids may cause short-term improvement in mood, but long-term use imposes risk of new-onset depression, a new study shows. The link was independent of the known contribution of pain to depression, and the study calls on clinicians to consider the contribution of opioid use when depressed mood develops in their patients.

from Today's Healthcare News -- ScienceDaily http://ift.tt/1W4ktzl